Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish


 

1. Make the Meatballs

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beefbreadcrumbsParmesan cheeseegggarlic powderonion powder, and salt and pepper.
  2. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside. This recipe should yield about 16–20 meatballs.

2. Prepare the French Onion Sauce

  1. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and caramelized (about 15–20 minutes).
  2. Deglaze the skillet by adding a splash of beef broth and scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
  3. Transfer the caramelized onions to the crock pot.

3. Assemble in the Crock Pot

  1. Add the meatballs on top of the caramelized onions in the crock pot.
  2. Pour the remaining beef brothWorcestershire sauce, and thyme over the meatballs.
  3. Gently stir to coat the meatballs in the sauce.

4. Cook the Meatballs

  • Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.

5. Add the Cheese

  1. Once the meatballs are cooked, sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the top.
  2. Cover and let cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on low, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve these flavorful meatballs with:
    • Mashed Potatoes: A creamy base for the rich sauce.
    • Buttered Noodles: For a comforting, hearty meal.
    • Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the crock pot, microwave, or on the stovetop until heated through.
  • Freeze: Allow the meatballs to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Flavorful: Caramelized onions and beef broth create a decadent French onion-inspired sauce.
  • Effortless Cooking: The crock pot does the heavy lifting, making this a perfect set-it-and-forget-it recipe.
  • Versatile Dish: Works as an appetizer, main course, or a comforting family meal.

These Crock Pot French Onion Beef Meatballs are a must-try for anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors. Whether served at a party or as a cozy dinner, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!